Lions International Youth Camp and Exchange Programme

One of the principal aims of Lions Clubs International is to create and foster a spirit of understanding among the peoples of the world. This is in part achieved through supporting local applications for their Youth Camp & Exchange Program which has been in operation since 1961. Anyone interested in this program or any other of the many service projects being undertaken by Ringwood and Fordingbridge Lions Club should call R & F Lions on 0845 833 5819 or contact us HERE for further information.

Would you like the chance to spend some time living with a family in another country and attending an international youth camp abroad where you get the chance to make new friends with people your own age from around the world? If so then read on.....

Ringwood & Fordingbridge Lions Club is now accepting applications for anyone aged between 16 and 20 who currently live in the Ringwood & Fordingbridge area and who want the chance to join The Lions Youth Camp & Exchange Program in 2019. If you are interested then simply download and print the application form available below, complete all sections, ask a referee to complete their part, and then sign the declaration. The completed and the signed document can then either be scanned and then sent back electronically to steve.sherring@randflions.org.uk or printed and posted to:

Lions Clubs International currently have approximately 1.4 million members worldwide in 210 different countries from around the globe. Each year, the Lions International Youth Camp and Exchange Program introduces thousands of young people to life in other cultures by helping them experience living with a host family in another country. Each year usually over 100 camps are available to choose from 40 or more different countries around the globe. Where will you want to go?

The Lions International Youth Exchange Program fulfils the First Object of the Lions which is "To create and foster a spirit of understanding among the peoples of the world".

Essential things you need to know

Exchanges can last anywhere between 2-6 weeks during which you will have the opportunity to stay with one or more host families in another country and attend an international youth camp in that country. All of your accommodation and usually all of your food and scheduled travel within your chosen country will be met by the Lions Organisation.

Youth camps are 1-2 weeks long and bring together young people from around the world where you will get the chance to learn more about the host country, make new friends, and embark on exciting activities, visits and experiences.

Every participant in the scheme must have their application first of all endorsed by their local Lions Club which is why Ringwood & Fordingbridge Lions are now accepting applications for 2019. All applications must be received by Friday 19th October 2018 and every shortlisted candidate will be invited to an interview along with their parent(s)/guardian(s).

Every applicant must:- live or attend school/college in the Ringwood & Fordingbridge area; be aged between 16 and 20; have a referee to support their application, and demonstrate excellent maturity; enthusiasm, with international tolerance and understanding.

Ringwood & Fordingbridge Lions Club reserve the right to decline any application without explanation or any right of appeal.

You will be responsible for financing your own international travel to and from your country of choice, any camp fees (some but not all camps may charge a fee), and any spending money for things such as long distance telephone calls, incidentals, and gifts.

You will be responsible for ensuring that you have all appropriate passports, visa's, and be fully insured to cover any and all contingencies including trip cancellation, repatriation, accidents, medical expenses, personal effects and personal liability during the entire duration of your travel and visit in the accepted country.

Remember that you are representing Ringwood & Fordingbridge Lions Club, your town, your community and your country at all times whilst in the host country. We will expect you to act appropriately and conduct yourself professionally at all times.

You must agree to abide by the policies of the Lions Youth Camp & Exchange Program. Your participation in the program is not for tourism, formal education or employment. Any unauthorized extended personal travel or leaves of absences during the program are prohibited, and you are not to operate a motor vehicle or motorcycle during your stay in the host country. Any serious violation of the program's policies can, at the discretion of the host Lions officer, result in the immediate termination or your visit at your own expense.